1.24.2015

This year I have a challenge for myself that I am also giving you. Challenge yourself to pick up small gifts during the year and have ready to give friends and family to say "thank you" for the little things they do.

Here are some ideas that you can pick up now from Michael's that are perfect for any budget! Take a look at this video for ideas.

I know these are perfect and I had to pick up sets for myself also! Here are pictures to help you get an idea of what you pick up. The prices range from $1.50 each to $5.00. See ......perfect for any budget.

Pick up items that can easily be put into sets like I did below.

The 2nd step is all about the presentation. You can wrap a gift on a budget by using coupons and after a holiday sale. Hobby Lobby is my favorite place to pick up my items.

Be inspired and today find special gifts that you can give your special friends!

1.23.2015

I love when a DIY project turns out great, and this is one of my favorites. Its simple and its something I would be proud to give as a gift. I use this every day to put my jewelry in and it just puts a smile on my face every time I see it. I know you will want to make for yourself and make one as a gift. It is so simple, and you can make it in a matter of minutes. Click the video below to see how to make.

You can purchase any type of a tray but I found mine at Hobby Lobby and it was 7.99 and I used the 40% online coupon. The little animal came from Michaels which I also used a coupon for. You will also need a can of spray paint and I would recommend going with gold because it gives the animal such a rich look.

This is a perfect touch of color on a desk or dresser and for a total of $6.00 to make it's awesome. You might be like me and when I start typing on my computer I like to take my bracelets and rings off. This will help you keep them in one place next to your computer instead of just sitting on your desktop.

This one is actually a great size and holds rings and bracelets. I love seeing it sitting on my desk and I have one in my dressing area. The little giraffe is so sweet.

So do you think you will be making one? I hope you enjoy and be sure to subscribe to my Youtube channel so you never miss out on ideas like this one!

Preheat oven to 320 degrees.
In a large bowl combine the flour, pecans, butter, vanilla, and sugar. Mix until combined.
Form the dough into 1 inch balls, and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 20- 25 minutes, until fully cooked through in the center. Let the cookies cool for at least 5 minutes, then roll the cookies in confectioner's sugar until coated. They are wonderful!
Only tip is do not over cook these, really keep on eye on them. Roll them while they are warm but not hot. So yummy!

1.19.2015

I made this one last night and my family loved it. It heats up great the next day for lunch at work.

Watch this link for step by step directions!

I had to include this photo because I love the smell of sautéed onions while they are cooking.

These are the ingredients you will need.

1 lb

Lean ground beef

1/2

Small white onion, chopped fine

1 tsp

Garlic powder

2 cups

Spaghetti Sauce

1/2 tsp

Salt (or to taste)

1 tsp

Italian seasoning

1

Egg, beaten

2 cups

Low fat cottage cheese

2 tbs

Parmesan cheese

6 Lasagna Noodles, cooked according to package directions

The estimated total time to make this recipe is 1 1/2 hours.

1

I preheat my oven to 350 and spray a 13×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. In a large saucepan, cook the beef (or turkey) and onion and garlic over medium-high heat until meat is browned, stirring to break up meat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, salt, basil, and oregano; cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.

2

In a small bowl combine egg, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Layer the lasagna in the baking dish starting with 2 cups of the meat sauce. Follow with a layer of three noodles, half of the cottage cheese mixture, and half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat Layers.

3

Cover and bake for 50 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and slightly browned on top. Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting.

This is such a great recipe and 100% of the credit goes to Dashing Dish. You should check her site out because she is awesome. Such a wonderful faith based site.

1.17.2015

This past weekend I took on giving my guest bathroom a makeover! I started by painting a little white bench black and I am so pleased with how it turned out. I have seen so many people painting furniture and it really looks great.

I also wanted to give my shower curtain a warm touch.

Start here with this step by step video of the makeover. You have to see the video for the best view!

This is what I started with as far as the bench.

During the process...

As for the guest bathroom here is my before.....you will notice its a little busy!

Here is the after. I had new granite counter tops put in along with paint. New shower curtain and fixtures! Along with my new black bench which has a new fresh look.